SUWON, South Korea - More than 80 Soldiers and families from 6th Battalion, 52nd Air Defense Artillery visited House of Dreams, the largest orphanage in Suwon July 9.
As the American visitors arrived at the facility, they were warmly greeted by the children and staff of House of Dreams.
“We were very worried this morning that the bad weather will prevent you [Soldiers and Families] from visiting us,” said Kim Ji-choon, the principal of House of Dreams, “but now I see that even the rain has stopped to welcome your arrival.”
The Iron Horse Battalion regularly hosts events and visits to the orphanage. This month’s visit was focused on the theme of the American Independence Day.
American Soldiers and Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army troops put together a special skit teaching the children how America won its independence from Great Britain.
“I would volunteer here again and again … just to see their [children] smile is worth the trip alone,” said Spc. Corey Sim of Alpha Battery, 6-52nd ADA Battalion and one of the primary organizers of the visit.
Soldiers also sang classics such as “God Bless American” and “America the Beautiful” for the children.
Pfc. Kim Young Woo, a KATUSA from Headquarters Battery, said, “When I saw the children enjoying our company and our performance, my heart became very happy.”
At the conclusion of the performance, children conducted small group activities such as “make-your-own” T-shirts and played traditional games such as “duck, duck, goose.”
More than 100 children currently call House of Dreams their home. The orphanage is divided into eight different houses with children of mixed aged groups. The intent is to recreate a positive sibling environment for the children.
Pfc. Denessa Harper of Headquarters Battery said that she “felt like a big sister today and she was very happy to make a difference in the local community.”
“I think this is the largest turnout for the orphanage visit we have ever had in terms of number of participating Soldiers and families,” said Lt. Col. William Darne, commander of 6-52nd Air Defense Artillery Battalion. “I am very proud of what we are accomplishing here.”
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